Reflexology and Menopause

Reflexology and Menopause

Menopause is an important subject for a Reflexologist because almost all women will experience some symptoms.

Menopause is often regarded with dread, and as something to be avoided, (and/or medicated), but in my view it is a transition into a new stage of life. I have to come clean now. I have been experiencing perimenopausal symptoms for about a year now, so I don't say this lightly.

Symptoms can vary, woman to woman, from a gradual decrease in periods, to an abrupt ending of them. The most common symptoms are hot flushes, dizziness and mood changes, and for some women these can be so severe as to be really debilitating, and the symptoms can go on for years.

Menopause is officially diagnosed when a woman has not menstruated for a full year, and the period before that is known as the perimenopause. During perimenopause, ovulation become less regular, oestrogen levels decrease and progesterone levels fluctuate.

The good news for women going through this transition, is that Reflexology can be really beneficial to a woman at this time. Reflexology as a therapy is excellent at helping to balance hormone levels in the body, which in turn will help manage the symptoms of menopause. A skilled Reflexologist will work the endocrine system thoroughly, as part of a holistic treatment.

Reflexology is very beneficial for reducing stress and anxiety, and so helps with the mood swings and low mood which can be major symptoms. Because of it's ability to help regulate the body's internal balance, regular treatments can help bring hot flushes under control.

You might wonder why it is important to explore treatments such as Reflexology as a way of helping manage the symptoms of menopause. After all, most women are offered HRT by their GP’s as symptoms start to appear. More and more scientific studies are showing a link between the use of HRT in menopause, and the development of breast cancer, so more women are looking for natural ways to manage without HRT, and Reflexology is one of those ways.

My advice to woman who are experiencing perimenopause or menopausal symptoms, is to prioritise self-care. Listen to your bodies rhythms, and obey your need for rest. Nourish yourself with good food. Take as much exercise as you can manage, and forgive yourself, if the symptoms are so severe one day, that you just can’t manage it. The combination of a healthy lifestyle (a really good diet and exercise), rest and Reflexology is often enough to help women manage their symptoms without needing to seek extra medical support.

If you live in Bristol, and want more information about Reflexology, call me on : 0117 950 6629 or 07811 619860